Westboro picks superintendent from Weston schools

WESTBORO — The School Committee Wednesday night unanimously selected Weston Assistant Superintendent Amber Bock to be the next school superintendent

Next, a contract must be negotiated, school board Chairman Stephen Doret said.

The School Committee voted after interviewing all three finalists in the Westboro High School library Wednesday night.

Ms. Bock, Framingham High School Principal Michael Welch and Watertown Superintendent Jean Fitzgerald were the finalists.

Ms. Bock, who lives in Westboro, will succeed Marianne O'Connor, who will retire this summer after 23 years in the Westboro schools, the last four as superintendent.

"With (Ms. Bock's) vision and her skill set, I think she's well positioned to be a great superintendent," school board member George Thompson said.

The school board interviewed each finalist for about 45 minutes, followed by questions submitted from the public and asked by Ms. O'Connor and Assistant Superintendent Daniel Mayer.

Ms. Bock thanked the board for "a comprehensive process" and an opportunity to interview to lead "a really dynamic and quality school system."

School board member Jody Hensley initially recused herself from the vote, noting that she and Ms. Bock are neighbors. Mrs. Hensley voted after Mr. Doret said Town Counsel Gregory Franks said no conflict of interest existed.